How to get to Reykjavik?

Reaching Reykjavik is relatively easy, thanks to its convenient location. Situated in the southwest of Iceland, Reykjavik is just short drive from the international airport located in Keflavík and only a 2 hour flight away from Europe and other major cities. There are many transportation options to and from the city, including buses, taxis, ferries, and cars.

By Plane

Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is the main international airport for Reykjavik, situated 49 km outside of the city on the Reykjanes peninsula. From here it is possible to take a transfer directly to the center of the city. Most major airlines fly to Keflavík, including Iceland Air, WOW Air, Germanwings, and several others. When looking for flights online, always use the abbreviation KEF for Reykjavik airport.

By Bus

The biggest bus company in Iceland is called Strætó and it runs buses between Reykjavik city center and Keflavík International Airport every 15-30 minutes. The journey takes around 45 minutes and tickets can be purchased on the bus itself with major credit cards or at selected Strætó bus stops with cash. It is possible to buy tickets online ( Straeto.is ) in advance.

By Minibus

If you’d prefer a slightly more luxurious ride, there are several operators that offer private airport transfers by minibus or SUV. The service includes pick up at the airport and drop off at the hotel or other desired destination. The journey takes around 45 minutes and can be booked online ( Flybus.is ) in advance.

By Taxis

Taxis can be found at Keflavík International Airport and are easy to book on arrival. As with any country, when taking a taxi always make sure to check the driver’s license so you know it’s an official taxi service. Prices for taxis from Keflavík International Airport to Reykjavik city center usually start from around 16,900 – 20,000 ISK depending on the number of passengers and the size of the taxi you require.

By Ferry

The ferry Herjólfur (Herjolfur.is ) operates twice daily between one of Iceland’s largest towns, Hafnarfjörður, which lies just 10 km south of Reykjavik, to the nearby islands of Viðey and Grímsey. The journey takes around 20 minutes each way and tickets can be purchased onboard on the day of departure or in advance online ( Herjolfur.is ).

If you are looking to travel to Reykjavik from other parts of Iceland, there are regular buses from all major towns that go directly to the city. Alternatively, car rental operators ( Avis.is ) offer one way rentals from all major towns in Iceland for a fee.

My personal opinion about getting to Reykjavik? Flying is definitely the most convenient way to get here; it saves a lot of time, compared to other methods like by car or ferry transfer. Having said that, if you’re not on a tight schedule and want to explore more of Iceland’s stunning scenery and coasts, renting a car from Keflavík International Airport makes a great choice too!

An Insider’s Guide to Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, is a unique tourist destination that offers visitors an unforgettable travel experience. This vibrant city is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and fascinating history, making it an ideal destination for travelers who want to explore the best of Iceland. In this insider’s guide, we will cover everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Reykjavik.

Local Attractions

Reykjavik is full of stunning natural beauty, including hot springs, glaciers, and volcanoes. One of the most popular attractions in the city is the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa that is located just outside the city. The Blue Lagoon is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Reykjavik. Another popular attraction is the Gullfoss waterfall, which is one of the most stunning natural wonders in Iceland. The National Museum of Iceland is another must-visit attraction that offers visitors an in-depth look at the country’s history and culture. Finally, for a unique attraction, consider visiting the Perlan Museum, which offers a stunning view of the city from its observation deck and focuses on Iceland’s unique geology 

Dining Spots

Reykjavik has a booming culinary scene, offering visitors a wide range of dining options to choose from. For a unique and exciting dining experience, try the Icelandic delicacy of fermented shark, which is served at various restaurants throughout the city. The Icelandic hot dog, which is served with raw onions, crispy onions, ketchup, mustard, and a special mayonnaise, is another must-try dish. For a fine dining experience, consider eating at Dill, a Michelin-starred restaurant that gives modern twists to traditional Icelandic dishes. Other great dining spots include Reykjavik Kitchen, Apotek, and Fish Market.

Cultural Experiences

Reykjavik is a hub for Icelandic culture and history, and visitors can immerse themselves in the culture by attending any of the numerous cultural events and festivals held throughout the year. One of the most popular cultural activities in the city is visiting the Harpa Concert Hall, which is an architectural marvel that is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera. The Reykjavik Arts Festival, an annual event that takes place in May, is another must-see event that features performances, exhibitions, and cultural events from around the world. For a more immersive cultural experience,  visitors can take part in a traditional Icelandic horseback riding tour or see the Northern Lights in winter which has been an Icelandic attraction for years.

Local History

Reykjavik is rich in history and offers visitors a wealth of opportunities to explore Iceland’s cultural heritage. The Settlement Exhibition is a must-visit attraction that provides an in-depth look at the city’s Viking history. The Reykjavik City Museum, which is located in the oldest part of the city, is another must-visit attraction that offers visitors an authentic look into the city’s history. Finally, for a unique glimpse into Iceland’s fishing history, visitors can make their way to the Saga Museum and learn about the lives of Icelandic seafarers and fishermen.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Reykjavik has a lot to offer, but there are also plenty of off-the-beaten-path destinations worth exploring. For a unique and relaxing experience, consider visiting the local hot springs, including the Secret Lagoon and the Reykjadalur hot springs. For a more adventurous experience, visitors can try hiking the trails to the top of the Mount Esja, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Finally, for a unique and quirky experience, visitors can visit the Icelandic Phallological Museum, which is home to the world’s largest collection of penises.

In conclusion, Reykjavik, Iceland is a unique destination full of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and fascinating history. Whether you’re interested in exploring the outdoors, indulging in the local cuisine, or immersing in the rich cultural heritage, Reykjavik has something to offer everyone. With this insider’s guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip and make unforgettable memories in this one-of-a-kind city.